What Is SPA (Salus Per Aquam)?

What Is SPA (Salus Per Aquam)?

Amid the fast pace of daily life, the time we dedicate to our bodies and minds is becoming increasingly valuable. Bringing together water, heat, treatments and relaxation rituals, SPA culture allows people to slow down, step away from their daily routines and make time for themselves.

The term SPA is commonly associated with the Latin phrase “Salus Per Aquam,” meaning “health through water.” Today, SPA refers not only to water-based treatments but also to a holistic approach to wellness that encompasses a variety of facilities and services designed to support relaxation and rejuvenation.

Water at the Heart of SPA Culture

Throughout history, water has played a central role in cleansing and relaxation rituals across different cultures. Traditional Turkish baths, hot-water bathing and mineral springs have all contributed to the development of modern SPA culture.

In today’s SPA centres, the soothing qualities of water are combined with heat, steam, massage and body treatments. Together, these elements create a comprehensive ritual that slows the pace of the day and makes space for both physical and mental relaxation.

What Facilities Can Be Found in a SPA Centre?

The facilities offered by SPA centres may vary depending on the size of the property and its approach to wellness. Turkish baths, saunas, steam rooms, thermal pools and relaxation areas are among the most commonly available facilities.

Features such as snow fountains, adventure showers and shock showers use contrasting temperatures to provide a refreshing transition after the sauna or steam room. Massages, traditional body scrubs and foam treatments, along with skin and body care rituals, allow each SPA programme to be tailored to individual preferences.

What Is the Difference Between SPA and Thermal Wellness?

Although the terms SPA and thermal wellness are often used together, they do not have the same meaning. Thermal facilities focus primarily on naturally sourced warm water with a rich mineral composition. SPA, on the other hand, represents a broader concept that encompasses saunas, steam rooms, Turkish baths, massages, treatments and relaxation areas in addition to water-based facilities.

When thermal water and SPA facilities are offered within the same centre, guests can combine a variety of practices. A relaxation ritual that begins in a thermal pool can therefore be complemented by a sauna, Turkish bath, massage or body treatment.

Time to Rejuvenate at Aqua Munda SPA

Located within Akrones Hotel, Aqua Munda SPA brings together thermal water and traditional and modern SPA practices across an expansive 16,000 m² setting. Divided into three distinct sections—Men’s SPA, Women’s SPA and Mix SPA—the centre offers different options based on guests’ preferences.

In addition to multiple thermal pools, the SPA features separate Turkish baths for women and men, a salt room, saunas, steam rooms, a snow fountain, adventure showers and shock showers. The outdoor thermal pool and panoramic sauna overlooking the surrounding scenery bring together the warmth of the water and the refreshing atmosphere of the outdoors.

Traditional and modern massages performed by professional therapists, along with a variety of body treatments, allow guests to personalise the time they set aside for themselves.

Discover the facilities and treatments available at Aqua Munda SPA.